How to Buy a Balance Bike

A balance bike, a pedal-less bike designed for kids as young as two, can teach your child to ride easier and faster than with training wheels. Essentially, these bikes teach kids the hardest trick to riding—balance—before they tackle the coordination needed to properly pedal, steer and brake. Read on for some things to consider when shopping for a balance bike.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Size and stand-over height is critical. The saddle should be adjustable so that both feet can stand flat on the ground. The bike will be much lower than a regular bike, so don’t worry if your child looks too big for it. The whole idea is that they can easily put their feet down and scoot along, practicing their balance.

2. Prices on balance bikes range from $80 to $300. The basic models may not be as adjustable or made with high-quality bike parts, but could do the trick long enough for your child to learn to ride. High-dollar ones are either uber-stylish wooden varieties or lightweight aluminum bikes that can be adjusted and repaired like a regular bike.

3. Most balance bikes have 12-inch wheels. If your child is tall enough, consider a 16-inch convertible TREK Float, which has removable pedals and cranks. This style can serve as a balance bike, then later as a first bike.

4. Some balance bikes have hand brakes, which help familiarize kids with a big-kid bike style. Several brands have no brakes at all.

5. Except for some of the wooden styles, most balance bikes have either plastic mag wheels or metal spoked wheels. Mag wheels are generally cheaper, but not replaceable if they break or wear down. Spoked wheels are more expensive, but more durable and adjustable.

6. Pneumatic tires will be more comfortable than solid rubber tires. If you don’t see a valve stem on the tire, it isn’t a pneumatic tire.

Tips & Warnings

• As with all bikes, if you buy one from a reputable bike shop, they will take care of you if anything goes wrong or needs repairing.

Resources

• Run Bikes
• My Balance Bike

[trendymommy]

on 9/26/2009 I agree that the Strider running bike is awesome! I bought one for my 2 year-old son this summer and he absolutely loves it! he enver wants to come inside anymore! It's so light-weight he can even carry it himself when he's doesn't want to ride it anymore.

I researched all the balance bikes before decicing and the Strider is the best bike on the market by far! www.stridersports.com has all the info or in Canada www.stridersports.ca

[balancebikeshop]

on 8/14/2009 The strider is a great bike and has been a very popular seller. If you are looking for a wood model, the Prince Lionheart is a great choice due to price and quality. My 3 year old son rides a Prince Lionheart and a Boot Scoot. I like the metal spoked wheels on the Lionheart.

Check them all out at my store, www.balancebikeshop.com

[EarthMother]

on 8/13/2009 This was good information. I'd never heard of balance bikes. Smile!

[kindermusikkids]

on 5/18/2009 The answer to all these comments are theStrider bike.It address the weight-Strider bikes are less than 7 poundsMade with durable metal partsQuick release is availableDosent require special tools assembles in minutesMy son has been riding since he's 2 and he's not even three yet and will probably be riding a two wheeler by the time he's 3You can read some of the articles I've written.Enjoy!Annette Simmons

[ScarlettOHairy]

on 3/14/2009 Thanks, I'd never heard of a balance bike.